AMS of the Week
The Orange Aboriginal Medical Service (OAMS) is a community owned and operated organisation that has been successfully providing medical and primary health care services to the diverse Orange district since 2005.
A spokesperson for the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service says it is well-regarded by the community and offers access to a range of health care services in a culturally sensitive, effective manner.
“We are committed to providing a service that results in improved quality of life for people in our community,” the spokesperson says.
“We are focused on a holistic and friendly approach to the wellbeing of our community members that is supported by values of self-determination, community spirit, empowerment and ownership, cultural appropriateness, respect, trust, honesty and openness.”
Some of the programs offered at the centre include the Murundhu dharaa (Wiradjuri meaning: “I live, I breathe, house”), which is a midwifery-led maternal, child and family health care initiative.
This program is among the first of its kind in NSW and the services include antenatal and postnatal care, birth support, childhood and adult immunisation, as well women’s screening and children’s health checks.
In Depth is a Diabetes Education and Prevention in the Home program. The service includes home visits to clients and adult health checks. A GP presents education to clients about diabetes management, diet, exercise and blood sugar level monitoring.
“The objective is to maintain good health, to reduce the risk of ongoing infections, the possibility of renal disease and to continue education and monitoring of the client,” the spokesperson says.
Orange AMS also runs an oral health program in local public schools where students learn how to keep their teeth healthy with brushing, a good diet and drinking water. Tooth brushes and toothpaste are supplied by OAMS with the support of the schools.
Orange is a large city in central-western NSW, with population of 42,000 (2001 Census). About 3.9 per cent of the population identify themselves as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, which is higher than the state average of 2pc.
Many Aboriginal people have moved to the Orange area from areas further out west, including Brewarrina, Walgett and Dubbo as well as Cowra, Dubbo, Wellington.
The Orange Aboriginal Medical Service is located at Unit 4 & 5, 9 Gateway Cres, Orange. The clinic is open from Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and from 1pm to 4.30pm. They can be
can be contacted on 02-6393 9000.
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